In our sport, we appropriately discuss ideas on how to maintain our birds’ health. However, we rarely talk about the pigeon fancier’s health.

There are a few significant risks to the pigeon fancier when exposed to our birds over the long-term.

  1. Allergies (common, but not very serious)
  2. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (uncommon, but serious)
  3. Pulmonary fibrosis (uncommon, but very serious)
  4. Infections (very uncommon, can be serious)

Fundamentally, how we treat our birds is similar to how we should treat ourselves. One of the primary, “must do” behaviors is to maintain a well ventilated loft.

  1. While cleaning your loft, wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth.
  2. Minimize accumulation of heavy amounts of dust in the loft.
  3. Prevent opportunities for rodents to nest. Rodent droppings may harbor germs that can directly infect humans.
  4. Always think “ventilation, ventilation, ventilation”.

If you develop a chronic cough or shortness of breath with exertion, please consider seeing your primary care physician. You may need a referral to a pulmonary specialist for specific testing.

I have known a number of fellow fanciers who decline to see a physician out of fear of being advised to get rid of their birds. As a physician and life-long fancier, I don’t think this sort of action is typically necessary. Rather, decreasing the amount of one’s stock and/or modifying the loft to maximize ventilation, cleanliness, and room dimensions per bird, etc. can often be a way to reduce your respiratory symptoms.Protect yourself like you protect your birds.